NGAT Magazine - Winter 2006 - National Guard Association of Texas

N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S
N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S
Winter 2006
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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS
F o u n d e d 1 9 5 9 • V o l u m e 4 6 • N u m b e r 4
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See
You
There!
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N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S
N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S
H

THANK YOU
FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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a token of our appreciation in honor
of your service to the armed forces.
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SEE WHY MORE THAN 5 MILLION MEMBERS TRUST USAA
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right to terminate or substitute this offer at anytime, without notice. Offer expires March 31, 2006. © USAA 2006. All rights reserved. 1637:13036
1637-13036 Texas NGAT.indd 1 1/12/06 1:58:57 PM

2006-07
Board of Directors
PRESIDENT
Mario Alayon
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Theresa Billeck-Zuniga
VICE-PRESIDENT
Marcos Santillan
SECTETARY-TREASURER
Jeffrey Merrill
HQ TXMF
Janice Bruno
71ST TROOP COMMAND
Gretchen Doty
36TH INFANTRY
DIVISION TROOPS
Michele Little
72ND BRIGADE
Juan Medrano
56TH BRIGADE
Jeff Breor
71ST BRIGADE
Jeffrey Merrill
36TH INFANTRY
DIVISION ARTILLERY
José Carillo
36TH DISCOM
Theresa Billeck-Zuniga
36TH AVIATION BRIGADE
Franklin T. Smith
36TH ENGINEER BRIGADE
Alfred Cordova
AIR NATIONAL GUARD
David Cornelius – HQ, TANG
Ramiro Valdez – 149th FW
Marcos Santillan – 147th FW
Scott Tyrrell – 136th AW
RETIRED REPRESENTATIVE
Harold Martin
FAMILY READINESS
Meg McNeely
TEXAS STATE GUARD
Jerry Icenhower
PUBLISHER
MediaNation, Terri Sheets
EDITOR
Frank Zuniga
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Ray Lindner
H H C O N T E N T S H H
Page 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Letter from the President-Elect
Page 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Legislative Update
Page 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Welcome Home
Page 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deployment Update
Pages 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Westlaco, Texas Fallen Soldier Honored
Page 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Membership
Page 12-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Photos from Around the World
Page 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retiree News/Homeland Defense
Page 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Around Texas with the Guard
Page 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ESGR
Page 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Travel
Page 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taps
Page 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Planning Calendar
Page 23-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Conference Information
NGAT News
3706 Crawford Ave.
Austin, TX 78731
(512) 454-7300
Toll-free
1-800-252-NGAT (6428)
NGAT HOME PAGE
www.ngat.org
NGAT E-MAIL
rlindner@ngat.org
rcasias@ngat.org
membership@ngat.org
insurance@ngat.org
travel@ngat.org
Welcome Home P. 6 Westlaco Soldier Honored P. 8 Around Texas with the Guard P. 16
NGAT NEWS (USPS 015-752) IS PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS, 3706
CRAWFORD STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6308.
SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE FOR MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS.
POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: NGAT NEWS, 3706 CRAWFORD STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6803
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A S S O C I A T I O N N E W S
President’s Report
The National Guard has never been as fully challenged as we have been since 9-11. During the last
4 years, the Texas National Guard soldiers and airmen have deployed to areas all around the world.
Each time a new mobilization comes, we stand ready to serve our country. So it is no surprise that
your Association is also continually impacted by deployments. Both Mario Alayon, NGAT President,
and Jeff Merrill, NGAT Secretary-Treasurer, are currently deployed to Kosovo.
As your President-Elect, I am continuing to focus the efforts of your Association in working on legislative
issues that are important to the Texas Military Forces. You can help by not only being an active
member of this association, but also in joining NGAUS or EANGUS, our national associations that
provide tremendous clout in the National Guard’s legislative efforts. Remember that “Joining is Just the Beginning.” I urge you
to make a difference by staying in touch with the issues, serving on a committee or task force, and participating in the political
process by volunteering for the NGAT “Fax Brigade” or “Email Brigade.” The future of the National Guard depends on all of us
taking an active role.
The NGAT Board of Directors has reviewed the Association Bylaws and is recommending significant revisions that we believe are
necessary to ensure that our Association can continue to be a responsible advocate as the National Guard begins transformation.
The recommended changes are available for your review on the Association web site at www.ngat.org. I am honored to
be serving on your Board of Directors, and I look forward to working with you in the coming year as we continue our efforts to
improve the Association and the National Guard.
HOOAH!!!
National Guard Association of Texas
3706 Crawford Avenue Austin, Texas 78731
(512) 454-7300 (TX) 1-800-252-NGAT
FAX: (512) 467-6803
Theresa Billeck-Zuniga
MSG, TXARNG
President-Elect
Call to
Order
24 January 2006
SUBJECT: Official Call of the 47 th Annual Conference, National Guard
Association of Texas
The 47 th Annual Conference of the National Guard Association of Texas will be
held at The Renaissance Austin Hotel, Austin, Texas, 24-26 March 2006.
The business session will take place on Saturday, 25 March 2006. In
accordance with Article XVI of the NGAT Bylaws, the NGAT Board of
Directors is proposing a number of bylaws changes. The contents of the
proposed bylaws changes are posted on the NGAT website (www.NGAT.org).
Voting during the NGAT business session at the conference will be by
designated delegates in accordance with NGAT bylaws, Article II, Section 1(e).
Registration information, committee meeting times, tentative agenda,
appropriate attire, and administrative instructions are contained in the
registration form on the back page of the magazine. The deadline to receive
the conference pre-registration discount is 1 March 2006.
All Association members and friends of the Guard are encouraged to sponsor a
soldier or airman’s registration and lodging fees for the conference by
becoming a Patriot Sponsor. To become a Patriot Sponsor, simply enclose an
additional $125 with your conference registration fees. All Patriot Sponsors
will be recognized in the NGAT Conference Program.
Please note that due to scheduling conflicts, the Commanders’ Conference and
Family Readiness Conference have been rescheduled.
See you in Austin!!
Theresa Billeck-Zuniga
MSG, TXARNG
President-Elect
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L E G I S L A T I V E U P D A T E
2005 Legislative Successes
2006 Legislative Priorities
TRICARE for the Guard
Guard members are
now eligible for military
TRICARE coverage, but
the price will be steep for
those who haven’t been
mobilized since 9/11. Unmobilized members who
don’t have access to health care through a civilian
employer will have to pay almost twice the premiums
paid by those previously mobilized -- about $145/mo
vs. $81 for single and $452/mo vs. $253 for family
coverage, respectively. TRICARE premiums for unmobilized
members with access to employer-sponsored
coverage will be set even higher, at $246/mo and
$768/mo for single and family coverage. NGAT will
now work to reduce those high premiums.
Reserve Housing Allowance
Guard members mobilized for more than 30 days will
be eligible for full locality-based housing allowances,
rather than having to wait 140 days under current law.
Protect the current authorized
strength of the TXNG
and argue for selected
additional force structure
The Pentagon is considering a
Reduction-in-Force plan that
calls for a nationwide drawdown
in troop strength for the Army
and Air National Guard. We are
fighting to ensure that Texas not only escapes troop
reductions, but also increases its troop strength.
Secure a complete fill of ARNG
ground equipment
The ARNG is short a considerable number of
its authorized fuel tankers and HMMWVs. This
shortage hampers training and the equipment is
critical for existing homeland defense missions.
Guard/Reserve Pay Differential
Mobilized Guard
members who suffer
a pay cut from their
civilian pay will be
eligible to receive a
monthly pay differential
equal to their monthly
civilian pay loss, once they have been on active duty
for at least 18 months, or for at least 24 of the last
60 months, or if remobilized involuntarily within six
months of their last active duty tour.
Adequate funding for Counter
Drug Force
Funding needs to be restored and increased to meet
expanded mission requirements.
W A N T E D :
Members who are willing to join the NGAT LEGISLATIVE BRIGADE. Add your name to a list of people
we can contact via email who are willing to call, email or fax their senators and representatives
concerning immediate legislative priorities. Email brigade@ngat.org to add your name to the list.
Visit the NGAT website www.ngat.org to find links to your senators and representatives.
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H H H H C om i ng s...H H H H
56th Brigade Combat Team Returns from Duty in Iraq
Soldiers of the 56th Brigade, 36th Infantry
Division returned to Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco
on December 10, almost a year after their deployment
to Iraq. More than 27,000 boisterous family
and friends were there to welcome them home.
Governor Rick Perry, Adjutant General Charles
Rodriquez, Major General Michael Taylor, and
Colonel James K. “Red” Brown were among the
many speakers. Colonel Brown thanked the
soldiers and thanked the family members for their
unwavering support.
The brigade also honored fallen comrades who
did not return with a moment of silence. The
soldiers honored for their ultimate sacrifice were
SFC Tommy Folks, SSG Sean Brady Berry, SSG
Christopher Everett, SSG Shawn Graham, SSG
Steve Morin, SSG Reggillo Nealam, SP4 Wayland
Sias and PFC T.J. Martinez. The mother of SSG
Berry was present in the audience. “My son
would have wanted me to be here to welcome his
friends,” she said, holding up a sign that read,
“The Family of Sergeant Berry Welcomes You.”
After the uncasing of the colors, Judge Walter
Smith Jr. opened a special session of the US
District Court and conducted a moving naturalization
ceremony for 29 Guard soldiers from Mexico,
Canada, China, and several other countries. H
Above: Former NGAT President
and Commander of the 56th BCT
Col James K. “Red” Brown and
CSM Eddie Chambliss uncase the
colors of the 56th BCT.
386th Engineer Battalion Returns from Iraq
In late October, the 386th Engineer Battalion began a phased
return home via Camp Shelby, Mississippi, after their deployment
to Iraq. The battalion mobilized in June 2004, and deployed to Iraq
in late 2004 as part of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR)
from the Tennessee Army National Guard. The 278th ACR was part
of the 42nd Infantry Division. While in Iraq, battalion missions
included force protection, infrastructure support to local towns
and villages, support for the national elections, training of the
Iraqi army, and partnering with other coalition forces. Battalion
Commander LTC James Junot and CSM Carlos Torres are both NGAT
life members. The unit is headquartered in Corpus Christi and line
companies are located in Kingsville, Baytown, and Pasadena. H
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H H H H G oi ng s...H H H H
Operation Joint Guardian
A deployment ceremony was held Nov. 25 at Baylor University
for more than 1,600 military troops from 26 different states and
one territory who deployed to Kosovo and Bosnia in support of
the global war on terrorism. The task force mission is to provide
security for communities in Kosovo and Bosnia. Commander of
the Task Force is BG Darren Owens and the Command Sergeant
Major is CSM Kenneth N. Boyer, both NGAT Life Members. H
Multinational Force &
Observers — Sinai
The 1st Squadron, 124th Cavalry Regiment has deployed to
become the US battalion in the Multinational Force & Observers.
The MFO’s peacekeeping force supervises implementation
of the security provisions of the Peace Treaty between the
Governments of Egypt and Israel in the Sinai Desert and the
Strait of Tiran and Gulf of Aqaba. The squadron is commanded
by LTC Lee Schnell and the Command Sergeant Major is CSM
Alfred Cordova, both NGAT Life Members. H
Task Force Southern
Lightning
On 14 December 2005, the Texas National Guard’s 136th
Signal Battalion conducted a transfer of authority ceremony in
Tikrit, Iraq. The battalion’s mission is to maintain and protect
a communications network of more than 12,000 military and
contractor customers. The task force also includes 1,118
soldiers from the South Carolina Army National Guard. The Task
Force Commander is LTC Tim Smith and the Command Sergeant
Major is CSM Beth Shockley, both NGAT Life Members. H
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Weslaco Armory Rededicated to Memory of Fallen Soldier
By Chief Master Sgt. Gonda Moncada
In an emotional ceremony here Dec. 4, the
National Guard armory in Weslaco was rededicated
in memory of a fallen Soldier, described as
“a young valiant man who loved God with all
his heart.”
SGT Tomás Garces, killed in the line of duty in Iraq
on Sept. 6, 2004, was remembered for his patriotism
and bravery during a ceremony attended by
his parents, Sonia and Rafael Garces, his siblings,
Rafael Jr., Ruben and Sonia Garces, other family
members, friends, fellow Soldiers and invited
guests. Many of the civilians attending attending
wore T-shirts or buttons bearing an image of
Sergeant Garces.
Sergeant Garces graduated from Weslaco High
School in 2003. Following graduation he joined
the Texas Army National Guard and was assigned
to the 1836th Transportation Company. He was
the first Texas Army National Guard Soldier to lose
his life in combat since World War II. He died in the
outskirts of Baghdad.
The young sergeants’ boots,
helmet and weapon stood as
a reminder of his sacrifice.
A photo depicted him in a
pose of victory, a reminder
that this Soldier had been a
skilled wrestler competing
at state level, and that his
dream was to become a
wrestling coach — a dream
cut
short.
Nevertheless,
Sergeant
Garces’ fulfilled
his dream of
serving his country.
The words accompanying his picture offered
a message to his fellow Soldiers: “Thanks to all
my friends that trusted and stood by me. Forgive
me for leaving so soon. The Lord has trusted me with a
special mission. I will never forget the nice times we had.
Keep the memories alive. See you at the end.”
The Adjutant General of Texas, Maj. Gen. Charles
Rodriguez, said during his speech at the ceremony,
“Very recently President Bush said very well that it is
important to continue to stand and deliver.”
Sgt. Tomás Garces’ boots, weapon and helmet
serve as a tribute to his ultimate sacrifice.
Weslaco
The Soldiers of the 1836th Transportation
Company, who stood and delivered after
Sergeant Garces died, were also recognized
by General Rodriguez. He reminded everyone
that among them were several who had been
wounded in Iraq themselves, but who felt that
this dedication was so important that they had
insisted in attending the ceremony.
“On behalf of the great State of Texas and the
United States of America, the Texas National
Guard armory is to be rededicated in the memory
of Sgt. Tomas Garces, General Rodriguez said,
delivering his speech in both English and
Spanish. “I dedicate this building this morning
in the name of the governor and the president in
service to the National Guard and for his service
to the United States and Army, to Tomás Garces.”
In Texas tradition, General Rodriguez presented
Mrs. Garces with a bouquet of yellow roses, and
he presented Mr. Garces a plaque with their son’s
photo, which will be hung in the armory’s foyer.
Sergeant Garces received the following awards
both before his death and posthumously: Bronze
Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and “V” device
(for valor), Purple Heart, Army Commendation
Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global
War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global
War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army
Service Ribbon. He also received the Lone Star
Medal of Valor. H
The plaque presented to Sgt. Tomás Garces’ father will subsequently
be displayed in the foyer of the armory.
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Membership
NGAT’s Newest Member
NGAT sponsored refreshments for the 36th Infantry Division Support
Command’s Brigade Full-Time Support Personnel Conference held in January
2006. During the conference, NGAT President-Elect MSG Theresa Billeck-
Zuniga presented membership information to the group and donated a one
year membership to the lowest ranking individual in attendance. Pictured
is MSG Billeck-Zuniga (left) presenting our newest NGAT member SGT Vicki
Rowland with her certificate of membership. H
TO ALL E5/E6 PROMOTED IN 2006
Congratulations on your promotion! The National Guard Association of Texas
(NGAT) and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States
(EANGUS), your state and national professional organizations, would like to
offer you a unique opportunity to join both of these organizations with a free
one year membership offer.
The NGAT Board of Directors recently approved a one-year free membership
for all E5/E6 promoted in calendar year 2006. United Services Automobile
Association (USAA) has agreed to sponsor a one-year membership in EANGUS
for all E5/E6 promoted in calendar year 2006.
All that you have to do to take advantage of this opportunity is to download
and complete the application form found at www.ngat.org/EANGUS and return
it to NGAT. NGAT will in turn forward all information to EANGUS.
We welcome you to the ranks of membership in these two important associations
and encourage you to become involved in their activities. The future of
the Guard is in your hands! H
SHELTER SYSTEMS • ISU ® MOBILITY CONTAINERS • AIRCRAFT PALLETS & PALLETIZED SYSTEMS
Rapid Deployment Equipment
VISIT AAR’s
BOOTH
ELAMS Tactical Operations Centers
Helicopter Lift of ELAMS
Interior of ELAMS TOC
TODAY MORE THAN EVER, MOBILITY IS THE KEY.
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N A T I O N A
SGT Gipson: SGT Gipson
of TF Alamo reenlists on
Christmas Eve at Camp
Bondsteel, Kosovo
Hot Wheels: SGT Ramirez admires the
local transportation in Kosovo
Task Force Alamo 2 Germany: Happy New Year
from Task Force Alamo, Hohenfels, Germany
Water Rescue: Multiple State Agency
Response training for Swift Water
Rescue, Austin, TX
Corpus 386: Co A 386th Engr Bn homecoming,
Corpus Christi, Texas
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L G U A R D
Water Ops: 1736th QM Det from Corpus Christi, doing water
ops in the Mediterranean Sea, Agami, Egpyt
136 Sig - 136th: Signal Battalion
uncases the battalion colors in
north-central Iraq
Santa John: CPT Upperman, HHC 3-112 th AR,
56 th BCT hands out gifts to children in Iraq
111th in Kabul: Happy Holidays
from the soldiers of the 111th ASG in
Kabual, Afghanistan
Lunch with Locals: 111th ASG
soldiers have lunch with the village
elders, Darnama, Afghanistan
On the Move: Soldiers of 3-141st IN on the
move in Qalat, Afghanistan
Sandstorm: Texas Soldiers Brave Sandstorm
in Kandahar, Afghanistan
Chillin’: “I never promised you a Rose
Garden.” Jafalbad, Afghanistan.
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Retiree News
Saddle up and come to Austin – you won’t want to miss this!
The NGAT Board of Directors is recommending some serious changes to the Bylaws, including expanding retiree representation on the
board to three directors, lengthening their terms to a full three years, and making them eligible to serve as officers of the Association.
In addition, the Board is recommending a change in the allocation of delegates, and for the first time ever retirees will select 30
delegates from their ranks. While these changes would not take effect until next year, this year is the time to come out in force and let it
be known that we retirees can contribute significantly to the goals of the Association, and that we stand ready to serve in any capacity
in order to ensure the combat readiness of our force and the care of their dependents.
Register now for the conference, and don’t forget to sign up for the retiree coffee. In addition, NGAT will be
hosting a hospitality room on Friday night that will feature soft background music, creating a conversationfriendly
environment. For those whose hearing aid has a mute button, the unit hospitality rooms will be
down the hall! On Saturday night, there will be a dinner and dance, featuring a brief awards program and an
actual dance floor and music by a local band. So bring your dancing shoes and enjoy the evening!
See You There!! Harold Martin
NGAT Life Insurance for Members and Their Families
If you currently have life insurance through NGAT,
please consider the following:
Things happen fast in life and NGAT would like to be there
to help you and your family over the rough spots.
- Do you know who is your current beneficiary?
- Have you moved recently?
- Are you newly married?
- Do you have a new child?
- Are you recently divorced?
- Are you retiring from the National Guard?
- Are you being mobilized?
- Are you turning 60 years old?
- Are you turning 65 years old?
If you answer yes, to any of the above questions, please
contact NGAT at: insurance@ngat.org.
Kathy Gallatin, Director of Insurance at a recent SRP.
If you do not have life insurance through NGAT, please consider taking out a
policy before you retire from the Guard. We offer both term and whole life
policies for members and their families. H
N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H 15

Around Texas with the Guard
Texas National Guard CH 47
“Chinooks” conducts
firefighting efforts.
Texas Forest Services
personnel look on as a
Army D7 Dozer cuts a
firebreak.
A TXARNG UH-60 Black Hawk aircraft
carries a “Bambi bucket” to dump
water on a targeted hotspot to stop a
wildfire from spreading.
(Photo courtesy of the Texas Forest Service)
Texas Military Forces Continue Wildfire Suppression Support
By Chief Master Sgt. Gonda Moncada
What started with the statewide disaster declaration by Gov. Rick Perry
has resulted in continued support from the Texas Army and Air National Guard
working in coordination with a number of local, state and federal agencies.
Governor Perry ordered the deployment of state firefighting assets and
issued a statewide disaster declaration Dec. 27. The Texas National Guard
deployed two UH-60 Black Hawks from the Austin Army Aviation Support
Facility and two CH-47 Chinooks from the Dallas AASF in Grand Prairie. The
Louisiana National Guard sent 3 UH-60 Black Hawks with 18 crew members.
The helicopters were readied to join firefighters in suppressing and containing
numerous wildfires in areas the governor described as “tinderboxes.”
On Dec. 28, two of the Texas Black Hawks dropped forty-seven 990-gallon
buckets of water to support firefighters on the ground in southeast
Travis County.
On Dec. 31, the Department of Emergency Management requested four
bulldozers and tractor trailers from the Engineer Brigade to assist in Abilene,
Texas. Nineteen Army Guard and two Air Guard personnel were deployed.
One refueler was requested Jan. 1 to support personnel in the Abilene area.
The armory in Stephenville, Texas, was designated as an operating base.
Four Black Hawks assisted firefighters in Eastland County, and two Chinooks
with the larger, 2,000-gallon buckets supported firefighters in Carbon
Eastland County Jan. 1. The aircraft flew a total of 7.5 hours and dropped a
total of 17 buckets until nightfall.
On Jan. 2, aerial support continued with three Black Hawks and two Chinooks
flying in support of ground personnel.
There are no significant changes in weather conditions forecasted, and Texas
Army and Air National Guard personnel will continue to support fire fighters
as long as it takes under Governor Perry’s guidance to: “Attack fires with
overwhelming force.”
Quick response from Louisiana was the result of the Emergency Management
Assistance Council “Immediate Response” agreement, signed by governors
across the country. Even with 80,000 Army and Air National Guard members
deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism, the skills and flexibility
of Guardmembers have proven to be invaluable in any emergency situation
related to their homeland defense and homeland security missions. H
6th Civil Support Team member checks backpack for
radiation Round Rock, TX
Four AH-64 Apache helicopters of the 1st Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment,
perform a flyover prior to the Dickies 500: NASCAR Race at the Texas Motor
Speedway Nov. 6. The Texas Army National Guard aircraft, flown from Ellington
Field, Houston, Texas, comprised part of the military presence at the event. Prerace
activities also included Soldiers carrying in the U.S. and Texas flags, a B-1
bomber flyover, and precision rifle drill by the Old Guard. (Texas National Guard
photo by Capt. Randy Stillinger, 3rd Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment)
16 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S

UNCOOLED SENSOR SYSTEMS
FOR THE WARFIGHTER
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Weapon Sighting
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- Enhanced Thermal Imaging
- Optimized Unattended
Ground Sensing
DRS’s advanced, uncooled infrared sighting and surveillance systems support
both off- and on-board soldier applications for transforming the warfighter. With
a diverse range of integrated sensor solutions, our products increase soldier
capability and survivability. They’re smaller, lighter and use less power; modular,
cost-effective and superior in performance. On Current and Future Force
programs, DRS supports manned, unattended and unmanned weapons
platforms and operations. As a one-stop solution for thermal sensor systems, DRS
enables war fighters to see first, understand first, act first and finish decisively.
Just what you’d expect from a world leader in defense technology.
www.drs.com 321.308.4804

The Texas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is
the local champion of Guardsmen’s rights guaranteed under the Uniformed
Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). USERRA
ensures job security for reserve component members returning to civilian life
from military duty. New regulations specifically address seniority, promotions,
healthcare, pensions, and other benefits. Key provisions of USERRA include:
1. Prohibits discrimination against those who choose to serve in the
“uniformed services.”
2. Entitles uniformed service members to a leave of absence from their civilian
employment for the period necessary to perform military service, whether that
service is voluntary or involuntary, for up to 5 years of cumulative voluntary
service. (They are not required to use their personal vacation during the period
of service.)
3. Provides for continuation of seniority-based benefits during a period of service,
such as pension credit that is granted upon reemployment. It also provides for
continuation of non-seniority benefits in some cases. The law has a separate
provision for continuation of coverage under a health plan during a period of
military service.
4. Entitles uniformed service members returning from military service to prompt
reinstatement of employment, with seniority, status, and rate of pay as if
continually employed.
5. Enables uniformed service members to seek relief, through the Veteran’s
Employment and Training Service, U.S. Department of Labor, if a conflict
cannot be satisfactorily resolved.
MG Charles Rodriguez, Adjutant General of Texas signs a
Statement of Support becoming a 5-Star Employer.
Of course, the service member has responsibilities as well:
1. Advance Notification. You must five your employer advance written or verbal
notification of duty.
2. Character of Service. You must serve satisfactorily or have been released from
service under conditions other than dishonorable.
3. Cumulative Service Limit. You must not have exceeded the 5-year cumulative
limit on periods of service.
4. Reporting Back to Work. You must report back within the time guidelines
of USERRA.
The ESGR Ombudsman Program is an informal mediation service available to employers or uniformed service members who are experiencing conflict because
of military duties. You can locate both the National Office and/or your local Ombudsman at the ESGR website: www.esgr.com, or by calling 800-336-4590.
Connect with Family Programs
The National Guard Family Program’s Online Community is a place to find contacts, information on programs and benefits, and more. Get tips, tools
and training on family issues or obtain the latest schedule for deployment/reintegration briefings. The National Guard is committed to providing Guard families
with services they need to deal with deployments, demobilizations and the many other challenges National Guard soldiers and their families face. Find out more
about Guard Family Programs at the following web site:
w w w.guardfamily.org
NGB Family Programs
w w w.family-program.org
Texas Family Programs
w w w.guardfamily youth.org
National Guard Youth Programs
Members of the 111th ASG open Christmas
gift and care packages sent to them by their
Family Readiness Group.
KFOR Family Readiness Group members gather contact
information from families of deploying soldiers.
18 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S

Travel
National Guard Association of Texas presents
Two Cruises for 2006!!
Baltic Cruise
Sailing roundtrip from Copenhagen
On Holland America’s ms Amsterdam
July 12-22, 2006
Itinerary
Day Port Arrive Depart
0 . . . . . Copenhagen, Denmark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 pm
1 . . . . . Cruising Baltic Sea
2 . . . . . Tallinn, Estonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 am. . . . . . 6 pm
3 . . . . . St. Petersburg/Moscow. . . . . .7 am. . . . . . . Overnight
4 . . . . . St. Petersburg/Moscow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 pm
5 . . . . . Helsinki, Finland . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 am. . . . . . . 6 pm
6 . . . . . Stockholm, Sweden. . . . . . . . . .8 am. . . . . . . 6 pm
7 . . . . . Visby, Sweden . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 am. . . . . . . 2 pm
8 . . . . . Warnemunde/Berlin . . . . . . . . .7 am. . . . . . . 11 pm
9 . . . . . Arhus, Denmark . . . . . . . . . . . . .9:30 am. . . . 6 pm
10 . . . . . Copenhagen, Denmark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 am
Bonus Booking Package includes:
• Free Cocktail Party
• Free Deluxe Cabin Gift
The ms Amsterdam is a 5-star rated ship.
Everywhere one looks, a sense of style and history pervades. Priceless
antiques and original works of art. Burnished brass. Sweeping staircases.
A promenade that completely encircles the ship. Teak deck chairs, sleek and
inviting. Everything is genuine. All this and more can be found on the elegant
ms Amsterdam.
Category
NGAT Price
Inside Stateroom from . . . . . . . . . .$1789 pp*
(based on category MM)
Outside Stateroom from . . . . . . . .$1989 pp*
(based on category G)
Verandah Stateroom from . . . . . . .$3190 pp*
(based on category BB)
Deposit Requirement: $600 per person payable at time of booking.
Final Payment: No later than 75 days prior to departure.
For reservations or information on either of these cruises, please call
Special Agent for NGAT Dianne Pope 800-437-1966/713-407-9710.
*All rates are per person based on double occupancy, subject to
availability at time of booking, and may increase without notice.
Non-discountable fees and taxes are $212.88 additional per person
for the Veterans Cruise and $401.18 additional per person for the
Baltic Cruise.
4th Annual Veteran’s Cruise
Sailing roundtrip from Los Angeles
On NCL’s beautiful Norwegian Star
November 6-14, 2006
Itinerary
Day Port Arrive Depart
0 . . . . . Los Angeles, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 pm
1 . . . . . Day at Sea
2 . . . . . Day at Sea
3 . . . . . Acapulco, Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 am . . . . .12:30 am
4 . . . . . Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa, Mexico . . . . 7 am. . . . . .2 pm
5 . . . . . Puerto Vallarta, Mexico . . . . . . . . 9 am. . . . . .5 pm
6 . . . . . Cabo San Lucas, Mexico . . . . . . . 8 am. . . . . .4 pm
7 . . . . . Day at Sea
8 . . . . . Los Angeles, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 am
Veteran’s Cruise 2006 Bonus Booking Package includes:
• VIP Guest Speakers
• Veterans Day Memorial Wreath Laying Ceremony
• Veterans Social Events
• Free Cocktail Party
• Free Bottle of Wine per cabin
• Free Souvenir T-Shirt
AND Much More!!
Category Retail NGAT Price
K-Inside Stateroom. . . . . . . . . . . . .$1678pp . . . . . . .$689 pp*
F-Outside Stateroom . . . . . . . . . . .$1938pp . . . . . . .$819 pp*
BD-Balcony Stateroom . . . . . . . . .$2238pp . . . . . . .$969 pp*
Deposit Requirement: $400 per person payable at the time of booking.
Final Payment: Due August 15, 2006
20 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S

Taps (as of 01/17/06)
*Russell C. Addison, Retired, Irving
Eugene S. Baker, Retired, Liberty Hill
MG Thomas D. Blackwell, Retired, Austin
*Billy M. Cook, Retired, Abilene
Charles W. Davis Sr., Retired, Victoria
SFC Tommy Folks Jr., Co A 2/142 nd, Iraq
(combat related), Amarillo
SGT James Hagler Jr., Retired, Houston
John J. Hammett, Retired, Sierra Vista AZ
*Michael Ingleman, Retired, Dallas
*Charles L. Johnson, Retired, Waxahachie
SFC Antonio H. Luna, Retired, Lamesa
MSgt Dale W. Pickard, Retired, Friendswood
*SSG Roy R. Rodriguez, Co A (-) 449 th Avn Spt Bn, Austin
SFC Jimmy D. Rowe, Retired, Terrell
SPC Jacob Siefert, HHC 4/112 AR, Bryan
*Had NGAT Life Insurance
NGAT Corporate Members
H e a l t h c a r e D i s c o u n t C a r d
Receive up to a 60% discount with the Wholesale Benefits Club
Discount Card on Prescription Drugs, Physician and Hospital
Services, Dental, and Vitamins and Supplements. Enter the card
code BX04 in order to view the listings of providers on our website
www.wbclub.net. To receive the NGAT discount through online
enrollment use the BX04 card code and ZBCH as the promotion
code. Call toll free 888-331-7465 for further information.
Please send me additional information including application to:
Name:____________________________________________________
Address:__________________________________________________
City:____________________________ State:___________________
Zip:_ _____________________________________________________
Return form to: Wholesale Benefits Club, Inc.
Att: NGAT
1717 W. Northern, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85021
N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H 21

National Guard Association of Texas
N G AT P l a n n i n g C a l e n d a r
(As of 26 January 2006)
2 0 0 6
1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan . . . . . . . . . . . New Year’s Day Observed
21 . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Board Meeting, Austin
7-9 . . . . . . . . . . . Feb . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Legislative Visit, Washington, D.C.
17-19 . . . . . . . . . Feb . . . . . . . . . . . EANGUS Area IV Midwinter Conference, Round Rock, TX
24-26 . . . . . . . . . Mar . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Annual Conference, Austin, TX
14-17 . . . . . . . . . Apr . . . . . . . . . . . Easter Observed
13 . . . . . . . . . . . . May. . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Board Meeting, Austin
4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jul. . . . . . . . . . . . Independence Day Observed
5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aug . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Board Meeting, Austin
18-23 . . . . . . . . . Aug . . . . . . . . . . . EANGUS Conference, Salt Lake City, UT
16-18 . . . . . . . . . Sep . . . . . . . . . . . NGAUS Annual Conference, Albuquerque, NM
4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Board Meeting, Austin
23-24 . . . . . . . . . Nov . . . . . . . . . . . Thanksgiving Observed
24-31 . . . . . . . . . Dec . . . . . . . . . . . Christmas Observed
NGAT Educational Foundation
NGAT Awards
The National Guard Association of Texas Education Foundation
announces its annual scholarship competition. Educational grants for attendance
at a college or university will be awarded for one year to Active or Life Members of
the National Guard Association of Texas and/or their spouses, sons or daughters.
The foundation will award 6 educational grants of various amounts:
1 – Educational Grant in the amount of $5000
2 – Educational Grants in the amount of $2500
2 – Educational Grants in the amount of $1000
1 – Educational Grant in the amount of $500
The deadline for receipt of all applications is
20 February 2006 in the NGAT offices.
Download an application at www.ngat.org.
The NGAT Awards Committee is in the midst of a restructuring
of the NGAT awards.
In lieu of unit awards this year, NGAT will award plaques to the
winners of the TAG’s Performance Excellence Competition.
An outstanding unit award will also be presented to a Texas
State Guard unit.
Individual awards are unchanged this year. NGAT will recognize
soldier and airmen outstanding performance at the soldier/airman and NCO
levels in the ARNG, ANG, and TSG.
Awards will be made on 25 March 2006 during the Annual Conference
in Austin. H
22 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H W W W . N G A T . O R G

2 4 - 2 6 M a r c h 2 0 0 6 , R e n a i s s a n c e A u s t i n H o t e l , A u s t i n , Te x a s
47th Annual NGAT Conference
Please check: Texas Military Forces Check as Army Air TSG Check as Retired Army
Guest/Spouse appropriate: appropriate: Retired Air
Rank:_________________________________ Name: __________________________________________________________________________
Unit: ________________________________________________________
Home Address: ______________________________________________
City/State:_________________________________Zip: ______________
E-mail Address: _________________________________________
Daytime Phone: (_______)_________________________________
Fax: (_______) ___________________________________________
Badge Name: ________________________________________________
Spouse/Guest Name: ____________________________________
Check: I have completed an overseas deployment I am the spouse of a currently deployed soldier
The unit you wish to sit with at the NGAT Dinner & Dance: ___________________________________________________________________
Please indicate any Special Needs (i.e. disability, dietary, etc.) ________________________________________________________________
Please check if new address
General Registration
Conference Events Fees* Amount
NGAT Member NGAT Member Non-NGAT Member Non-NGAT Member
Spouse/Guest
Spouse/Guest
Basic Conference Registration $15 $15 $15 $15
Welcome Party $20 $20 $25 $25
Retiree Coffee $ 5 $ 5 $ 8 $ 8
Spouse Luncheon $20 $20 $20 $20
Saturday Night Dinner & Dance $30 $30 $40 $40
Prayer Breakfast $15 $15 $15 $15
Bowling $15 $15 $20 $20
Fun Run $10 $10 $15 $15
$_________________
$_________________
$_________________
$_________________
$_________________
$_________________
$_________________
$_________________
Golf
Member Handicap______ $65 $65 $75 $75
$_________________
Spouse Handicap ______
Skeet & Trap $30 $30 $30 $30
$_________________
*Please add
$10 late fee
per person if
mailed after
10 March 2006.
Payment Method/Total Fees
Total Registration Fees
$_________________ Check enclosed (please make check payable to NGAT)
Charge my: MasterCard Visa Expiration Date: __________________________
Card #: ________________________________________________________________
Name of Cardholder: ______________________________________________________
Signature of Cardholder: ___________________________________________________
Amount
$______________
M a i l t o N G AT: 3 7 0 6 C r aw fo r d Ave n u e, Au s t i n , Tex a s 7 8 7 3 1 o r Fa x t o : ( 5 1 2 ) 4 6 7 - 6 8 0 3

Join us in Austin!
The 47th Annual NGAT Conference will be held 24-26 March 2006 at the
Renaissance Austin Hotel, 9721 Arboretum Boulevard, Austin, Texas.
Optional Friday events include Golf Tournament; Fun Run &
Walk; Skeet & Trap Tournament; and Bowling Tournament.
Our Golf Tournament this year will honor our returning soldiers
and airmen. The Board of Directors and Members of the
University of Texas Golf Club will play host to the 2006 NGAT
Golf Tournament. This year’s tournament will honor and recognize
soldiers and airmen returning from service overseas by
providing them with a complimentary registration for golf.
New this year is a Defense Colloquium on Friday afternoon that
will feature key Guard leaders speaking on the transformation of
the Texas Military Forces.
Don’t miss the NGAT Casino Welcome Party – come try your luck
at Black Jack, Poker, Craps or the Roulette Wheel. If you are more
of a spectator, come and enjoy the food and entertainment while
getting reacquainted with friends from across the state.
This year’s Silent Auction already boasts assorted gift baskets,
framed art, jewelry, weekend getaway trips, household and
outdoor items, tickets to music, sports and other entertainment
venues. Bring your checkbook and take advantage of the
great bargains.
On Saturday evening, put on your finery and attend the NGAT
Dinner & Dance. After the presentation of the Minuteman and
Scholarship awards, guests will proceed with dinner followed by
a ballroom dance. Exchange those boots for dancing shoes and
enjoy an evening with friends and great music.
This year’s Hospitality Booths will be located in the Rio Grande
Exhibit Hall. Units will compete for best themed hospitality
booth. Live entertainment and margaritas for everyone will
be available.
This year, NGAT will host an NGAT Social Lounge sans music for
persons who want to visit with friends in a more conversationfriendly
environment.
Early conference registration must be postmarked by 10 March
2006. Please make your hotel reservations directly with the
Renaissance Austin Hotel (800/228-9290). The hotel cutoff date
for early registration is 3 March 2006.
For more complete registration information, visit www.NGAT.org,
or call us at 1-800-252-NGAT.
National Guard Association of Texas
3706 Crawford Street
Austin, Texas 78731-6803